Botox TM

Botox is a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment offered by Mr Chris Fenn, consultant plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

What is Botox?

Botox is a natural purified protein extracted from the toxin ‘clostridium botulinum bacterium’. It is used by medical health professionals to combat the signs of ageing by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by removing the action of the underlying muscle. The Botox works for about 4-6 months, and can then safely be repeated to continue its effect.
As it is a prescribed medication, it should only be used by qualified clinicians in a medical setting.

Who would benefit from Botox treatment?

As we age, the years of smiling, laughing, frowning and sunbathing take their toll on our faces. The collagen in the skin becomes less supple, resulting in wrinkles and lines. Whilst some people accept this as part of the natural ageing process, others feel unhappy with their appearance and it has a detrimental effect on their self-confidence. By reducing the visible signs of ageing using Botox, self-esteem is often restored.

Is Botox administered in an out-patient setting?

Yes – you can usually have Botox during an out-patient appointment with Mr Fenn. Small quantities of the solution are injected using a fine needle into targeted muscles. It is a relatively pain free procedure that takes between 15-20 minutes. An improvement in the appearance is usually visible within a couple of days although it can take up to 14 days to see the full effect.

Results last for approximately 6 months

BeforeThe Facial Muscles

Injection Sites

Injection SitesAfter Result

How does Botox work?

Whereas other non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers (hyperlink to that page) work by plumping out wrinkles, Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that cause the muscles to move. Its effect is to paralyse the muscle at the site of the injection. As the muscles relax, so does the skin; softening the appearance of lines and wrinkles and creating a more youthful look.

Are there any side effects?

A common question asked by patients is ‘will other parts of my body be affected by the Botox?’ – the answer to this is no - only the injected muscles and tissue approximately 1cm around the injection site are affected by the treatment. It has no effect on other muscles or the central nervous system. However, you will be advised not to massage or rub the area that was treated with Botox directly after injection as this could potentially spread the treatment into neighbouring muscles.There may be a little redness or minor bruising after the injection treatment but this only tends to last for an hour or so.

Is Botox safe?

Botox has been widely researched and used for over a decade in thousands of patients across the world. It is approved by both the European Commission and the US Food and Drugs Administration.

What is the recovery time?

Unlike surgical treatments, there is no recommended recovery time following Botox treatment – normal activities can be resumed immediately.